Epidermal growth factor receptor-targeted therapy in colorectal cancer

Front Biosci (Landmark Ed). 2016 Jan 1;21(2):410-8. doi: 10.2741/4397.

Abstract

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family plays an important role in colorectal cancer (CRC). EGFR participates in the key process of tumorigenesis and invasion, and its expression correlates with the prognosis of CRC. EGFR-targeted therapy has been widely utilized in stage III and IV CRC. The EGFR antibodies, cetuximab and panitumumab, are widely used in treatment of CRC. There are clinical trials and in vivo studies being carried out on the efficacy and mechanism of their action in CRC treatment. In this review, we will describe the EGFR-targeted therapy used in CRC, focusing on the efficacy and mechanisms of the most commonly used EGFR antibodies, cetuximab and panitumumab.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cetuximab / adverse effects
  • Cetuximab / therapeutic use*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / metabolism
  • ErbB Receptors / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Panitumumab

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Panitumumab
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Cetuximab